Amnat charoen: "Suksomruay" has invited "Yingcheep" to visit Amnat Charoen as the legal proceedings unfold according to the law. This invitation follows the defamation lawsuit filed by Ms. Suksomruay Wantaniyakul, a Member of Parliament for Amnat Charoen Constituency 1 and Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, against Mr. Yingcheep Atchanon, who is the Director of the Internet for People's Law Project (iLaw).
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Suksomruay recently elaborated on her decision to file a police report in Amnat Charoen rather than pursuing the matter in court. She explained that this decision was part of her announced schedule to return home for work and also avoided the cost of hiring a lawyer. She assured that the legal process would proceed naturally, indicating that if the police do not find the case to be defamation, the matter will be concluded. However, should it be considered defamation, it will proceed to the prosecutor, and if deemed complete, will be filed in court. Expressing confidence, Ms. Suksomruay stated her readiness to face trial, emphasizing her right to defend herself through the legal system.
In response to iLaw's allegations regarding irregularities in the number of Senators from Amnat Charoen and their substantial vote counts, Ms. Suksomruay remarked that iLaw has persistently focused on Amnat Charoen and other provinces with Bhumjaithai Party MPs. She stated that she was unaware of any such issues concerning the Senators, suggesting that reporters should direct their inquiries to iLaw, especially as social media questions the legitimacy of iLaw's proposed "People's Senators."
Commenting on the fundraising efforts by the Civil Rights Fund, which garnered over 600,000 baht for Mr. Yingcheep's legal fees, Ms. Suksomruay noted the positive aspect of public donations assisting with legal expenses.
Ms. Suksomruay extended a welcoming gesture to Mr. Yingcheep, saying, 'As a resident of Amnat Charoen, a small town with a warm heart, I welcome Mr. Yingcheep. Perhaps he might visit, or come here to make merit and find peace of mind. Personally, I don't know Mr. Yingcheep and we have no animosity towards each other. However, the democratic system doesn't prohibit us from filing a lawsuit to protect ourselves according to our legal rights. I hope Mr. Yingcheep understands these principles well.'